Doolin gears up in memory of Marie

Donal Minihan-general manger of Hotel Doolin gets a feel for the wheels with organisers Mark Clancy, John Clancy, John McDonagh, James Clancy and Jimmy Boyle ahead of the Doolin Harley Fest on 16th and 17th of August in aid of the Marie McDonagh Clancy Foundation.Photograph by Yvonne Vaughan

Harley-Davidson owners from across Ireland, the United Kingdom and the United States will descend on the North Clare village of Doolin next week for the inaugural Doolin Harley Fest 2014.

Taking place from Friday August 15th to Sunday August 17th the event is being held in support of the Marie Clancy McDonagh Foundation, set up by the family and friends of local woman Marie Clancy who died in May from ovarian cancer at the age of 38.

Marie’s husband James and his two brothers, Mark and John as well as local man Jimmy Boyle are motorcycle enthusiasts and have partnered with Hotel Doolin to organise the festival, which they hope will become an annual event.

Doolin Harley Fest 2014 will feature more than 200 Harley-Davidson owners embarking on a charity ride through the Burren, a bike parade in Doolin, a custom bike show in the marquee of Hotel Doolin, BBQ’s on the lawn, a balloon release in memory of those who have died of cancer, and live music all weekend. Participating bands include ‘The Back of the Hand Blues Band’ featuring Dave Hope, ‘Blues Train’ featuring Johnny Fean, and Crossroads 66.

“We are delighted to have been asked by the Clancy family and Jimmy Boyle to host and help organise this event in memory of Marie. All the monies raised from this event will go to local cancer charities that do such a wonderful job in the community,” stated Hotel Doolin manager Donal Minihane.

He continued: “Like many other small communities around Ireland, there are not many families or people who haven’t had a loved one or friend touched by cancer. People can feel helpless when their loved ones are suffering but events like this can make a difference. They raise money for a good cause and they represent a show of solidarity and compassion from neighbours, friends and the wider community.”

“The people of Doolin have been very supportive of Harley Fest with people donating time, spot prizes and financial assistance to the event. The weekend is not just for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts, there will be plenty going on for families and people of all ages,” added Mr. Minihane.

Harley Fest 2014 takes place from August 15-17th in the grounds of Hotel Doolin, County Clare. Tickets are €20 and can be bought from Hotel Doolin, info@hoteldoolin.ie / 065-7074111.